GB Railfreight buys DB Cargo Class 66s

It was back in August that the German-owned company said eight stored and two active members of its fleet were to be sold, some having serious engine defects, including cracked blocks.

Back in traffic: One of the 10 locos bought by GB Railfreight is No. 66141, seen passing Chellaston, near Castle Donington, on December 14 with 6E02, the 11.03 Bescot Down Side-Boston Docks empty steel carriers, a working previously operated by Colas. PAUL A BIGGS

DB has suffered more than other freight companies in the downturn following the collapse of coal movements, because of increased carbon tax, and in the past has sold Class 60s to
Colas Rail.

Expansion plans

The value of the deal is undisclosed, but GBRf has expansion plans, and the company was recently advertising for six drivers on a salary of more than £55,000 a year.

The locos GBRf has bought are Nos. 66008, 66016, 66046, 66058, 66081, 66132, 66141, 66184, 66238 and 66250 – the last of the class delivered to former owner EWS. No. 66141 had been stored since April 2014, but has been reinstated to traffic.

GB says it will number the locos from 66780 to 66791, and in time, all will get GB branding.

The latest purchase comes on top of three Class 47s bought from Colas Rail – see RM January, p97.

Read more News and Features in January’s issue of The RM – on sale now!

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